Turkey: Workers' protest ongoing in Tuzla District, Istanbul, early March 27

Event

A strike and protest by Mata Automotive workers is ongoing in Istanbul's Tuzla District early March 27. Workers are demanding increased pay, among other demands. The labor action has been ongoing since early March; on March 27, protest organizers signaled an intent to march on Ankara. Before the march began, police deployed and blocked the demonstration near the Tuzla Free Zone. The precise gathering location in this area is unclear.

Heightened security is likely in the impact area for the duration of the protest. Confrontations between demonstrators and police are possible if strike participants ignore police orders. Some localized ground travel delays are also possible in the area.

Advice

Avoid the demonstration. Exercise caution in the Tuzla District through March 27. Plan for some ground travel delays near protest sites. Heed the instructions of local officials.